'Billy Elliot' To Close Early

CHICAGO (CBS) "Billy Elliot," one of the latest big Broadway musicals to stop in Chicago, is closing early, producers announced today.

The show, featuring music by Elton John and about a young boxer who pursues his dream of dancing, was originally expected to play at the Oriental Theatre into January. Now, the last day will be Nov. 28, according to a Broadway in Chicago news release.

"On behalf of my fellow producers and the entire production team, I am grateful to the wonderful city for welcoming our show. We appreciate the opportunity to have shared 'Billy Elliot' with the seasoned theatergoers of Chicago," producer Eric Fellner said.

Disappointing ticket sales are presumably to blame, but the release instead highlighted the show's 37 weeks and nearly 300 performances here. The early closing of "Billy Elliot" dampens Chicago's efforts to become a magnet for high-profile plays and musicals. Still, other productions, notably "Wicked," have played strongly in Chicago.